Neither coach has taken any jabs or offered any jokes about the other during news conferences leading up to Tuesday night's Sugar Bowl. They appear to have a good relationship, although there could be some underlying tension.

''It's a decent relationship,'' Davis said. ''We don't see each other that much. ... I guess it's a good relationship because we've never played.''

But Spurrier hasn't always been so flattering, especially about two recruiting battles between the Gators and Hurricanes.

When offensive lineman Jonathan Colon signed with both schools in February, the National Letter of Intent Steering Committee ruled Miami's letter was signed a day too early and therefore was invalid.

Colon's mother said a Miami Central High employee had visited their home unannounced on Feb. 1 to have the Miami letter signed and post-dated.

''We follow the rules. Some others don't,'' Spurrier said when he heard the accusation.

The 6-foot-8, 310-pound Colon didn't qualify at Florida and has since enrolled in a prep school until he gains admission. Spurrier didn't back off his statements when asked about Colon this week.

''I thought (Miami) might get in trouble sending that lady over to sign him the night before, but I guess it hasn't been that much of a deal,'' he said.

Davis denied any wrongdoing and was disappointed by Spurrier's comments.

''Maybe he spoke before he thought about what was going on,'' Davis said. ''Maybe he didn't know what transpired that day. Those are things that happen. You're going to butt heads anytime you're recruiting in this state.''